Republican Jefferson County Clerk Bobbie Holsclaw is not interested in a run for Louisville mayor despite encouragement to take on Democratic incumbent Greg Fischer.In April, Fischer announced his intentions to run for a second term in 2014, and Occupy Louisville member Ike Thacker told WFPL last week he plans to run for mayor as an independent.No GOP challenger has voiced interest in the race thus far despite observers pointing out that Fischer barely won in 2010.Some have tossed Holsclaw's name outthere as a potential opponent, citing her overall popularity and 16 years in office.Holsclaw says the GOP needs to field a credible contender and a woman needs to run for mayor, but she is seeking a fifth term as clerk next year."Right now, today I’m running for re-election for Jefferson County clerk," she says.Asked if that means she would re-consider at some point, Holsclaw told WFPL she has the right to change her mind before next year’s filing deadline. "You know some days you just never know—do you—what life’s going to bring. But right now I absolutely love it. I’ve been honored and privileged to serve in this office and I have not thought beyond that."In 2011, Holsclaw jumped in the race for Kentucky governor in the three-way Republican primary against Louisville businessman Phil Moffett and former state Sen. President David Williams.Holsclaw's campaign struggled to stay competitive and many questioned if it was an attempt to handicap Moffett, who was a Tea Party favorite, and his turnout in Jefferson County.Holsclaw also faced tough criticism after a state audit found poor documentation of charitable donations and other questionable practices. In the report, Auditor Adam Edelen's office scolded Holsclaw for paying out $99,200 in Christmas bonuses to employees in December 2011, which is against state law.In reaction, however, Holsclaw disputed much of the examination's findings and accused Edelen, a Democrat, of targeting her for political purposes.Despite that public feud, the GOP clerk remains a popular figure among local RepublicansHolsclaw says Louisville voters and officials have nudged her to seek higher office, whether that's running against Fischer or for Congress."And I’ve also heard to run against (Democratic Congressman) John Yarmuth, so I’ve been approached by both Democrats and Republicans," she says. "It’s always an honor for people to think you can do a good job at anything, but right now the only thing I have considered is this office and the love I have for it."
